Norcia, Italy: Monastery of Saint Benedict
About the Monks of Norcia:
The Benedictine Monks of Norcia are members of the Order of St. Benedict. As of August 2016, there were professed Monks from the U.S.A., Germany, Indonesia, and Brazil. Norcia is the birthplace of Saints Benedict and Scholastica (brother and sister).
About the Monastery in Norcia:
The Basilica of Saint Benedict here is home to the Monks of Norcia. Note that both these saints are entombed together in the Monstery at Montecassino. They welcome visitors, both individuals and pilgrim groups. Their famous albums can be ordered online from their website. They also invite you to enjoy Birra Nursia in the company of friends and family, “Ut Laetificet Cor”, that the heart might be gladdened.
The monastery was damaged during the earthquake of August 2016 that devastated Amatrice,some 16 miles away; then, sadly it was completely destroyed in the earthquake in October of that year.
The monks had decided to preserve the Eucharist in the large tent on the monastery grounds, just in case of any additional earthquakes. It is available during Divine Office, daily Mass for the local inhabitants, as well as the 50,000 pilgrims that are expected to visit the monastery each year.
Efforts are under way to re-build and much progress has been made; however the local diocese also has to use the Monastery (the Diocese actually owns the land and building) since every church in town was destroyed by the earthquake. We suggest you contact them before making any arrangements to visit.
Traveling to Norcia:
The nearest major town is Spoleto, about 20 miles west of Norcia. There are train connections to Spoleto from many cities including Rome (about two hours), from there you would need to take a taxi. Get train & bus schedules, see fares & buy tickets here.
Address: Via Reguardati, 22 06046 Norcia (PG) Italy
GPS coordinates: 42° 47′ 32.6616” N, 13° 5′ 35.5992” E
Tel: +39 0743 817125 Fax: +39 0743 828425
e-mail: monastero@osbnorcia.org
Click here for the website of the Monastery at Norcia
The Monks of Norcia also have a community in Australia at New Norcia.
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